After covering the sequence of events for an occupational injury, we now shift our focus to the sequence of events for an occupational disease. While the expectations are similar, the specific requirements differ. Understanding these processes is crucial for ensuring that affected employees receive timely medical care and compensation. Building on our previous discussions about managing occupational injuries and detailing the necessary steps and forms for compliance, this article outlines the process to be followed when an occupational disease is diagnosed, highlighting the necessary actions and documentation to ensure adherence to COIDA regulations.
Sequence of Events for Handling Occupational Diseases:
1. Employee Sent to Medical Practitioner
When an employee experiences symptoms related to an occupational disease, they are sent to a medical practitioner for evaluation.
2. First Medical Report (W.Cl. 22 Form)
The medical practitioner completes the First Medical Report (WCI.22 form), documenting the diagnosis and severity of the disease.
3. Employer Reports to Compensation Fund (W.Cl.1 & W.Cl.14 Form)
The employer ensures that the claim is reported to the Compensation Fund within 14 days of the diagnosis.
4. Progress Medical Reports (W.Cl. 26)
As the illness progresses, the medical practitioner submits progress medical reports (W.Cl. 26) until the disease stabilizes.
5. Final Medical Report (W.Cl. 26)
Once the employee’s condition becomes stable or permanent, the medical practitioner provides the Final Medical Report (W.Cl. 26).
Remember that accurate reporting and timely communication are crucial for supporting affected employees and complying with regulations.
WCI Forms and Responsibilities:
WCI Form: | Name of Form: | Person to Complete the Form: |
W.CI.22 | First Medical Report | Medical Practitioner |
W.Cl. 1 | Employer’s report of an occupational disease | Employer
|
W.Cl. 14 | Notice of an accident & claim for compensation | Employer
|
W.Cl. 110 | Exposure history | Medical Practitioner |
W.Cl. 26 | Progress Medical Report | Medical Practitioner |
W.Cl. 26 | Final Medical Report | Medical Practitioner |
W.Cl. 6 | Resumption report | Employer |
Description of Forms for Occupational Disease Claims:
Form W.Cl. 1 - Employer’s Report of an Occupational Disease
This form is for employers to report an occupational disease affecting their workers.
Form W.Cl. 14 - Notice of an Occupational Disease and Claim for Compensation
This form must be completed by the employer to notify the compensation commissioner of a worker’s occupational disease.
Form W.Cl. 22 - First Medical Report in Respect of an Occupational Disease
Employers must report the initial diagnosis and treatment within 14 days of the first consultation with the affected worker.
Form W.Cl. 110 - Exposure History
This form captures details related to the employee’s exposure history.
Form W.Cl. 26 - Progress Medical Report
This form is used to report the progress of an employee suffering from an occupational disease. It needs to be submitted monthly until the employee’s condition stabilizes.
Form W.Cl. 26 - Final Medical Report
It is used to report the final status of an employee who has suffered from an occupational disease.
Form W.Cl. 6 - Resumption Report
This form must be completed and submitted by the employer when an employee resumes work after being off duty due to an occupational injury or disease.
Remember:
From the initial diagnosis to reporting, claims processing, and rehabilitation, each step is crucial to ensuring that affected workers receive the necessary support and compensation. If an employee believes they have contracted a disease at work or due to working conditions, a claim can be filed with the Compensation Commissioner. The Commissioner will evaluate the claim against a schedule of common workplace injuries and diseases. The employee must provide documentation from approved medical practitioners to support the claim.
Various W.CI. referral forms need to be completed and submitted to the Compensation Commissioner, depending on whether the employee has experienced an occupational injury or disease. If the claim is successful, the employer is liable for compensation payments for the first three months from the date of the occupational injury.
For further information, please contact the Compensation Commissioner at:
Tel: 086 010 5350
Fax: (012) 326 1570 or (012) 357 1772
Compensation House, Cnr. Hamilton Street & Soutpansberg Road, Arcadia, 0001
PO Box 955, Pretoria, 0001
Email: cf-info@labour.gov.za
Website: www.labour.gov.za
